Altel and Geespace launches ALTEL Digital, advancing satellite connectivity across Southeast Asia
Designed to bridge connectivity gaps and spark innovation, Altel Digital will combine Geespace’s advanced satellite infrastructure with Altel’s LTE private network capabilities to build a robust, space-terrestrial communications system.
DANIAL HAKIM
Designed to bridge connectivity gaps and spark innovation, Altel Digital will combine Geespace’s advanced satellite infrastructure with Altel’s LTE private network capabilities to build a robust, space-terrestrial communications system.
Revealed on April 18, this partnership marks a pivotal step forward in driving innovation, enhancing regional connectivity, and energizing the digital and space economy in the region.
Altel Digital's venture represents a historic milestone: it is the first time a Chinese commercial aerospace firm has acquired equity and assumed an active operational role in an overseas telecommunications company, simultaneously positioning Southeast Asia at the forefront of LEO satellite technology adoption.
Geespace, operating under the Geely Group, has already launched 30 satellites and is on track to complete Phase I of the Geesatcom deployment by the end of 2025. The constellation is engineered to support advanced services such as smart city development, autonomous mobility, disaster response systems, and intelligent infrastructure.
Focusing on local expertise and national security
According to Deputy Chief Executive Officer of Altel Digital, Khoo Yuen Hing, the venture is poised to become a leading homegrown provider of LEO satellite services tailored to Malaysia’s strategic needs.
“Altel Digital has identified addressable market gaps and segments, with a strategic focus on IoT, high-precision positioning, satellite backhaul, broadband, and direct-to-device solutions through Geesatcom. We are committed to ensuring that all ground architecture and assets are based in Malaysia.
“Over the next 24 months, we plan to establish two Ground Earth Stations, two Telemetry, Tracking, and Command (TT&C) Centers, Application Data Centers, and a comprehensive PPP-RTK positioning network. At Altel Digital, data security and sovereignty are our top priorities as we localize critical assets and business operations.” he said.
Altel Digital is also committed to strengthening Malaysia’s aerospace talent pipeline, recognizing the growing need for skilled professionals in satellite technology.
“As satellite technology and services become increasingly globalized, Altel Digital anticipates a potential shortage of technically skilled professionals in Malaysia's satellite industry,” the company stated.
To bridge this gap, Altel Digital, in partnership with Geespace, will establish a Centre-of-Excellence (CoE) to facilitate technology and knowledge transfer. The company is also evaluating TVET (Technical and Vocational Education and Training) programs in collaboration with top-tier Chinese universities to ensure a future-ready workforce.
Aligning with Malaysia’s national vision
Altel Digital has since pledged strong alignment with Malaysia’s strategic blueprints such as the National Space Policy 2030, the Jendela digital infrastructure initiative, and the National Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) policy.
“Altel Digital seeks to contribute to national programs by leveraging its LEO satellite connectivity and applications technology to address key priorities outlined in the National Space Policy 2030, the Jendela program, and the National Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR).
"We have engaged extensively with relevant national agencies to present our value proposition and are enthusiastic about the opportunity to make a meaningful impact.” Khoo stated.
Additionally, Altel Digital is exploring Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs) to expedite rollout and technology deployment nationwide.
As digital demands evolve and space technology becomes more integrated into daily life, Altel Digital stands at the forefront of Malaysia’s space-tech revolution in shaping a new era of connectivity, talent development, and sovereign digital capability through innovative global collaboration.
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